Former Browns WR Landry Criticizes Coach Stefanski

Landry's comments about lack of player connection may spark fan reaction

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:06pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a recent podcast, former Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jarvis Landry criticized the coaching style of head coach Kevin Stefanski, saying Stefanski was not very personable or relatable with players. Landry noted that the connection between players and Stefanski faded after the team reached the playoffs and Stefanski was named Coach of the Year.

Why it matters

Landry's comments could reignite discussions about the relationship between Stefanski and his players, especially since Landry was only with the team through 2021 and may not have full insight into the later seasons. The Browns have had mixed results under Stefanski, making the playoffs but also experiencing losing seasons, which can lead to players scapegoating coaches.

The details

In the podcast, Landry said 'You expect most of these coaches that are younger to be more personable, more relatable with their players, and in most cases it just doesn't work out that way.' He felt the connection between Stefanski and the players began to fade after the team's playoff appearance and Stefanski's Coach of the Year award. However, other players like Joel Bitonio have spoken positively about Stefanski and felt he had the respect of the locker room.

  • Landry was only with the Browns through the 2021 season.
  • Stefanski was named NFL Coach of the Year after the 2020 season.

The players

Jarvis Landry

Former Cleveland Browns wide receiver who played for the team from 2018 to 2021.

Kevin Stefanski

Head coach of the Cleveland Browns since 2020, named NFL Coach of the Year in 2020.

Joel Bitonio

Cleveland Browns offensive lineman who has played for the team since 2014 and has spoken positively about Stefanski.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You expect most of these coaches that are younger to be more personable, more relatable with their players, and in most cases it just doesn't work out that way.”

— Jarvis Landry, Former Browns Wide Receiver

The takeaway

Landry's comments highlight the challenges of maintaining strong player-coach relationships, especially as coaches become younger and more successful. While Stefanski has had some success in Cleveland, Landry's perspective suggests there may have been disconnect between the coach and players at times, which could resurface as a point of discussion among Browns fans.